The Crucible Character Descriptions

Study Notes

Character Descriptions in "The Crucible"

Reverend Parris: Widowed with children, exhibits paranoia and self-pity, seeks power, is disliked by his parishioners, and displays hostility towards others.
Betty Parris: The 10-year-old daughter of Reverend Parris, falls into a stupor that ignites rumors of witchcraft in Salem.
Abigail Williams: Orphaned niece of Parris, noted for her striking beauty, intelligence, and cunning nature; she is vindictive and at the center of mysterious rumors about her character, acting as the leader of the group of girls.
Tituba: The slave of Reverend Parris from Barbados, she is the first person accused of witchcraft, highlighting racial and social tensions in the community.
John Proctor: A successful and respected farmer in Salem, he is known for his easy-going temperament, logical thinking, and self-reflection, viewing himself as a sinner amidst the hysteria.
Elizabeth Proctor: John Proctor's wife, described as sickly and virtuous but emotionally cold and timid; she seeks to please her husband while often feeling sad.
Mary Warren: A 17-year-old servant to the Proctors, characterized as lonely and easily influenced by others, she often embodies feelings of worry.
Thomas Putnam: A greedy, vindictive, and nosy wealthy landowner, he is the eldest son of Salem's richest man, known for engaging in land disputes and jumping to conclusions about others.
Ann Putnam: Thomas Putnam's wife, aged 45, described as having a "haunted" and "twisted" soul due to the tragic loss of seven infants; she blames others for her misfortunes.
Francis Nurse: A well-respected figure in Salem who serves as an unofficial judge in disputes; a self-made man, he faces jealousy and resentment, particularly from Thomas Putnam.
Rebecca Nurse: At 72 years old, she is the gentle and calm wife of Francis, experienced and reasoned, believing that the illnesses faced by teenage girls stem from boredom rather than witchcraft; she seeks peace and tolerance.
Giles Corey: An 83-year-old character, known as the "comical hero," he is innocent and uneducated, often viewed as a crank by others.
Rev. Hale: A 40-year-old specialist in demonology from Beverly, he is intellectual and sensible, initially reserves judgment, and his arrival accelerates the unfolding hysteria.
Deputy Governor Danforth: A grave and business-like character aged 60, he harbors great respect for the court, believes in a true sense of justice, and sees himself as acting rightly within his Puritan values.
Judge Hathorne: Presiding over the witch trials, he exhibits impatience, is partial, and rushes to judgment, contributing to the unfairness of the trials.

Description

This quiz features flashcards that detail the key characters from Arthur Miller's play 'The Crucible'. Each card provides insights into their personalities, motivations, and roles in the story. Perfect for students looking to understand the complex dynamics of the characters in this dramatic tale.